'Medieval Europe was a market-place whose principal commodity was religion. Because heresy meant choice, it was as subject to market forces as to the terrors of the devil or the Inquisition. Catharism was a lifestyle rather than a frightening secret society. This is the controversial argument sustained with great lucidity throughout this book. It is original, accessible and scholarly, as well as being an excellent guide to the most recent research.' Michael Clanchy FBA, Emeritus Professor of Medieval HistoryInstitute of Historical Research, University of London'Issues of religious doctrine and beliefs are once more at the forefront of political and cultural conflicts around the world. Andrew Roach's interesting book can help us understand our modern world better, and should have a wide appeal to non-specialist readers'Paul Ormerod, author of the best-selling "Death of Economics" and "Butterfly Economics"'Here, in Andrew Roach's nuanced reconstruction, is a clear and objective analysis of the way the close relationship between social and economic change and religious dissent worked in real life, devoid of the ideological baggage which has so often distorted such interpretations in the past.'Malcolm Barber, Professor of Medieval European HistoryUniversity of Reading In his fascinating new study, Andrew Roach places the rise and fall of the heresies of the central middle ages in their broader context. He argues that the emergence of heresy in the twelfth century reflected lay impatience with the monopoly of the medieval Church. Unprecedented consumer choice in food, clothing and less tangible products such as troubadour entertainment and highereducation meant that people looked at religion in a new light. Not only did they expect to be cared for in this life and the next, but they also hoped to enhance their wealth and social standing through their involvement in religious organisations. Consequently, they turned to informal groups s
